Makar Saṅkrānti मकर संक्रान्ति
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The Sun, known as Surya in the Vedic tradition makes its annual transition from (sidereal) Sagittarius (Dhanu) to Capricorn (Makar) on 1/14 or 1/15, depending on your location. This festival marks a new beginning and initiates the auspicious time of Uttarāyaṇa. Uttarāyaṇa is a combination of two Sanskrit words, “uttara” (North) and “ayana” (movement).
Uttarāyaṇa spans six months, commencing as the Sun embarks on its northern journey and culminating as it enters Cancer (Karak) around 14/7, marking the initiation of dakṣiṇāyana, the Sun's southward movement. Termed the 'Day of the Gods,' this period is regarded as highly auspicious, as the devatas (deities) are believed to be awake
This marks a period of prosperity, expansion, and heightened spiritual development. With the Gods awake and active, they are deemed more benevolent in this cycle, showering blessings upon the fruits of your actions, rituals, ceremonies, and commitments made during this auspicious time.
The hours preceding and following saṅkrānti (the monthly transition of the Sun) are deemed unsettling for the Sun. This shift can be likened to the process of relocating homes, involving packing, moving, and settling into a new phase.
This portal holds profound significance for nurturing spiritual growth, as it invites inward reflection on the previous month and strategic envisioning/planning for the upcoming month. In tandem with the awakening of the Devas, we're finally stepping out of the long-awaited Mercury Retrogrades, marking not only a celestial alignment but a pivotal moment in our personal journey toward positive transformation. 🌙✨
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